Coverage of the Frisco RoughRiders from the corner of Hicks & Diamond Drive

Perez Headed to XM All-Star Futures Game

Frisco left-hander Martin Perez will represent the Texas Rangers Sunday, July 10, in the XM All-Star Futures Game, as announced today by Major League Baseball. Perez will play for the World Team.

The only other Ranger farmhand is shortstop Jurickson Profar, who has hit .269 with six homers and 26 RBIs for Low-A Hickory. Profar trails only Perez in Baseball America‘s list of Texas prospects.

The game takes place at Chase Field in Phoenix, Ariz., at 5 p.m.

Why is Perez going to the Futures Game (at least statistically)? Let’s tell you about it in a Perez version of the Facts.

FRISCO FACTS:

Perez is near the top of many categories in the Texas League. He is second in strikeouts (78), tied for third in innings pitched (82.1), fourth in earned run average (3.28), and sixth in WHIP (1.32).

Obviously the most frequently used numbers for Perez have dramatically improved from last year to this year (5-5, 5.96 ERA in ’10; 4-2, 3.28 ERA in ’11).

In 2011, Perez is averaging almost five and a half innings per start. During those efforts, he has given up an average of 2.2 runs on 5.1 hits. He has struck out 5.2 and walked only 2.1.

Compare that to last year, when Perez only mustered an average outing of a little more than four frames per start. The averages for last year came out to 3.0 runs, 4.9 hits, 4.2 strikeouts and 2.1 walks.

Two other situational improvements have aided Perez’s game. The difference in his performance against lefties (.267 to .188) has been profound, as has his ability to retire the leadoff man (.313 to .240).

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